If you speak with an insurance agent when you’re buying a new auto insurance policy, ask them if they can help you cancel your old plan. If they provide that service, the agent will be able to tell you the next steps to take.

If you buy online, the information should be available at some point during the signup process, along with how to complete the cancellation.

Your new car insurance company might not be able to cancel your old policy

Many major auto insurance companies—including GEICO and Progressive—will not cancel your old insurance policy if you buy directly through them. But if you buy through an independent agent or a broker, they may be able to help you cancel your old policy.

If the new insurance company won’t help you cancel, you’ll need to contact your current insurer directly. The process for canceling can vary—in some cases, you can cancel through an app or website, but you may be required to make a phone call or submit a letter through the mail.

Learn more:

How to cancel your car insurance

Here are a few things to note:

Even if they don’t help you cancel directly, all insurers will send proof of insurance to your new insurance company if you’re required to provide it as part of the cancellation process.

It’s always a good idea to request confirmation of your cancellation in writing.

If you’re financing a car, check with your new insurance company to make sure they’ll inform them of the change in coverage. If not, you’ll need to contact your lender and update them.

PLAN YOUR CANCELLATION DATE CAREFULLY

Ideally, your new policy should go into effect the same day your old one ends. That will help you avoid either a gap or an overlap in coverage:

A gap in coverage, known as an

insurance lapse

, can leave you unprotected if you get into an accident. It will also lead to higher premiums when you buy a new car insurance policy.

An overlap in coverage can be complicated if you get into an accident while both policies are in effect.

Jerry can help you cancel your old insurance policy

When you buy a car insurance policy with

Jerry

, you can usually cancel your old insurance policy right from the app.

First, sign up and request car insurance quotes, then choose the offer you like best and request a final price.

It usually takes about 10 minutes to finalize the plan, then you’ll be given the opportunity to purchase your new insurance policy.

You’ll see the option to cancel your old policy after you pay for your new policy in the Jerry app.

Need to know: Depending on your previous insurer’s requirements, you may need to mail in a signed form to finalize the cancellation—but the app will walk you through exactly what you need to do.

When should you cancel your car insurance?

Here are a few reasons it's a good idea to switch insurance companies:

You found a lower rate somewhere else

You're unhappy with the company's coverage options or customer service

You can save on your insurance costs by bundling your homeowners insurance (or renters insurance) with your car insurance

You're moving to a state where your current insurer doesn't operate

Before you switch, be sure to shop for quotes with an insurance comparison app like

Jerry

so you'll know you're getting the best rate for your new policy.

FAQs

Can you switch from one insurance company to another?

Yes—you can switch auto insurance policies at any time. If you pre-paid for your current policy, you’ll be entitled to a prorated refund of any unused insurance premiums, minus any early cancellation fees or other administrative costs.

Is it risky to switch insurance companies?

As long as your new policy starts before the old one ends, there’s not much risk involved, although you could lose a loyalty discount by switching. That said, check your insurance terms carefully as some insurance companies will limit coverage for a set period of time at the start of a new policy term.

Can an insurance company cancel your coverage?

Insurance companies can cancel your car insurance coverage, but depending on where you live, there may be regulations around when and why they can cancel it. In general, though, insurance companies always have the right to cancel your policy for nonpayment.

Will changing my insurance company affect my coverage?

In some cases, your new coverage may be limited for a set amount of time when the policy begins. You may also lose access to some types of insurance coverage—for instance, not all insurance companies offer add-ons like gap coverage or roadside assistance.

How will I know if my insurance company is going to cancel my old insurance?

The best way to know whether your insurance provider will cancel your old policy is to ask directly. In general, you can assume that they will not unless they specifically state that they will.

What should I do if I want to switch car insurance companies?

Compare car insurance rates from several companies to be sure you’re getting the best price. When you find the best car insurance company for you, purchase a policy that will start on the same day you want your old policy to end. Then, call your current provider cancel your old insurance policy.

Does GEICO help cancel other insurance?

No, GEICO will not help cancel your old policy—but the company does provide a cancellation form letter on their website that you can print out and mail to your current car insurance company.

Why is my car insurance so high?

There are a lot of factors that can make your car insurance rates high, like having numerous insurance claims, traffic violations, or at-fault accidents on your driving record. Driving a pricy car, having a poor credit score, living in a high-crime area, and choosing expensive coverage options (like a high liability plan with full coverage and add-ons) can all lead to higher rates.

How can I make my car insurance cheaper?

To find the cheapest car insurance, start by shopping around for quotes from several insurance companies. You can also try lowering your deductible, bundling your homeowners’ and auto insurance with the same insurer, or asking your current insurance company if you qualify for any discounts you’re not already enrolled in.